David Lammy lends his nomination to Diane Abbott in the Labour leadership contest

Today (24/05/2010), David Lammy confirmed he would lend his nomination to Diane Abbott in the Labour leadership election in order that she secures the 33 nominations required to enter the contest proper.

David Lammy said:

“Ever since I was first elected to parliament I have called for a more diverse and representative political class. It would go against all that not to help Diane Abbott get on to the ballot paper now. To have a leadership election without a single woman involved would send a terrible signal.
 
I would say to colleagues that lending someone your nomination is not the same as voting for a candidate in the final ballot. The question at this stage is whether we can have a more diverse field and an open discussion over the next few months. I think we should.”